Message from the CEO

Woman-Owned, Veteran-Owned Business 

Spotlighted for Women's History Month

State of Business: 

Howard County Spending Affordability Advisory Committee FY25 Recommendations

Explore the intricacies of Howard County's fiscal trajectory as the Spending Affordability Advisory Committee (SAAC) reveals its report for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25).

Tasked with advising County Executive Calvin Ball on fiscal matters, SAAC's comprehensive report delves into revenue projections, bond authorizations, and the long-term fiscal outlook. Access the full report to navigate through the financial landscape of Howard County.

As Howard County prepares for a return to normalized revenue growth rates following extraordinary budget expansions, the imperative of prudent budgeting comes to the forefront. SAAC underscores the necessity of a balanced approach, particularly in managing school funding and addressing infrastructure maintenance.

The report advocates for a cautious approach, limiting new bond issuances and commissioning a thorough review of long-term spending. Collaborative efforts are the compass guiding decisions, ensuring a course toward sustainability.

Simultaneously, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball delivered his annual State of Business Address at the Business Outlook Luncheon hosted by the Howard County Chamber of Commerce. Embracing a new dawn for Howard County, Ball lauded the state of business as "strong," underscored by the county's attainment of a AAA bond rating from all three credit rating agencies this week and the lowest unemployment rate in the State at 1.6 percent.

State of Business: 

MD Office of the Comptroller "State of the Economy" Report

The Office of the Comptroller unveiled its inaugural "State of the Economy" report, offering a comprehensive analysis of Maryland's economic landscape spanning the pre, during, and post-pandemic periods. The report places particular emphasis on labor force dynamics, migration patterns, and growth trends, providing valuable insights into the state's economic trajectory.

Developed through quantitative research and analysis conducted by the Bureau of Revenue Estimates and qualitative research gleaned from a series of roundtable discussions hosted across the state by the Policy Division, this report offers a nuanced understanding of Maryland's economic resilience and challenges.

State of Business: 

MD Department of Commerce Annual Report

The FY2023 Annual Report from the Maryland Department of Commerce: "Strategy in Focus" offers a detailed overview of the department's strategic initiatives aimed at bolstering Maryland's economic landscape.

From attracting new investment to fostering job creation and supporting business expansion, the report provides a comprehensive account of the Department of Commerce's efforts to cultivate a more competitive economy in Maryland. Through a combination of targeted strategies and collaborative partnerships, the department has worked tirelessly to enhance Maryland's business environment and spur economic growth.

Pitch & Mingle: The Lucky Pitch

Exciting Announcement! 📣

Join the Maryland Innovation Center for our pitch competition featuring entrepreneurs and startup companies in the community. $7,000 in prizes will be awarded!

Here's a sneak peek at our incredible lineup:

🎤 Emcee: Laura Cannon from Ceremony Officiants

🏆 Judges: Tierra Lathan from Consult Lemonade, esteemed MIC mentor Abhishake Chibber and Stephen Auvil from TEDCO.

Spirited in atmosphere and in food and drink offerings, Pitch and Mingle is the perfect opportunity to stir up your social network, mingling with fellow attendees over light fare and libations. Come support the community's entrepreneurs, participate in the selection process and make connections.

So how does it work? 5 startups are selected to present a 4-minute pitch. This is followed by 4 minutes of Q&A from the panel of judges and audience. At the end, our judges will come together and select the top 3 companies! These winners will receive cash prizes with first place receiving $3,000! In addition, there will be a "Crowd Favorite" award which is selected by the audience.

Route 1 Tax Credit Program

If you own commercial or industrial property along Route 1, here’s an incredible opportunity offered by Howard County to revitalize it. The County has established a tax credit program to encourage property owners to invest in renovations and improvements.

Through this program, you can receive reimbursement for up to $100,000 of the eligible costs associated with renovating the exterior of your building and enhancing the surrounding landscape. By taking advantage of this tax credit, you not only enhance the curb appeal and value of your property but also contribute to the overall revitalization of Route 1.

Don't miss this incredible opportunity to breathe new life into your property while receiving substantial financial support from Howard County. Visit the Route 1 Tax Credit Program, email a representative or call 410-313-4381 to learn more and get help navigating the program requirements and maximizing the benefits available to you.